Since the last picture update I had was at my 30 pound mark, I wanted to DOUBLE the weight loss, for a more noticeable change, and well... 30 MORE pounds takes a few months to lose. ha! So here it is, all you fabulously supportive people! As of last week, I am officially 60lbs lighter than I was 6 months ago!!!

I had a friend ask me at the beginning of this month:

"Seriously... How are you staying motivated?

Aren't you SO sick of the gym?"

I know that everyone says you're "SUPPOSE" to start liking (or at least not minding) the gym after a few months, once you're in a routine... but guess what? I go almost everyday and to tell you the honest to God truth...I still hate every sweaty, painful, fat-bouncing MINUTE of it!

I said this to my friend, and followed it up with...

At the risk of sounding completely shallow, the fact that I can wear and do things that I've never been able to experience before, is now the ONLY reason that I keep going on this weight loss journey, most of the time. I don't really EVER hear people discuss this next topic I'm about to touch on, but I thought I'd talk a little bit about what kinds of "results" from my weight loss that I've been enjoying the most, these past few weeks.

:)

* Crossing my legs:

Yup, as embarrassing as this is to admit, up until about a month ago, I've never really been able to comfortably cross my legs. "Something" would always get in the way, and eventually, no matter how hard I focused on keeping one of my chubby trunks over the other, I would ultimately end up in more of a "side sit" or "ankle cross" because actually crossing my legs, one knee over the other like everyone else, just didn't feel natural OR comfortable.

As a side note: I know that crossing your legs isn't technically good for you (don't ask me why...something about veins) but let's all admit, it just looks good, no?

:)

...

* Wearing smaller sized jewelry and shoes:

I've always been SO focused on losing my belly, or back fat, that I'd never entertained the idea that your feet/ankles and wrists/hands could and WOULD lose weight right along with the rest of your body too!

Even though it was completely awkward at the beginning of my weight loss, I'm SO HAPPY that I took measurements of all my different parts, so that I can see how MUCH I've shrunk!

I've gone from an 8.5 (wide) shoe size, to a 7.5. I've lost about 1 inch off of each ankle, almost 3/4 inch off of each wrist, and none of my rings fit me anymore. ha! I've even come to the point where I'm having to wrap tape around the back of my wedding ring, to keep it from slipping off. I haven't taken measurements for a few weeks, but as of last month,

I was officially down 46 inches total!!!

...

* Starting to wear shirts that have letters in front of them, instead of numbers & pants that start with a 1, instead of a 2:

If you've ever worn plus-size clothing, then you will totally know what I'm talking about. ha! But for those of you who haven't, plus size clothing comes in 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x... and so on. It was about a month and a half ago that I was walking through Old Navy with Cason and the girls, when I spotted a cute tank top across the store in the women's section. I knew from lots of past experience with Old Navy that they only carry their plus size clothing online, but something about the shirt drew me over anyway. Just as someone who's never been plus-size wouldn't know how to buy larger clothing, someone like me, who has never been a "regular size" didn't know anything about standard sizing. So I flipped through the shirts, heading straight to the back and pulled out an XXL. I had a long-sleeved t-shirt on that day, so I thought I would just slip it over my head to see if it would fit. I took a quick glance around me in all directions, to make sure there wasn't anyone watching, for the fear of this becoming a case of "big girl is awkwardly stuck inside a shirt that she thought she could fit in, but can't, and now she's frantically trying to free herself from the garment, while little ripping noises are being made by the poor shirt in the process"

... ugh. If you've never been in that situation, count yourself lucky.

Aaaaaanyway, as I slid the shirt quickly over my head, I was suddenly aware that I WASN'T stuck inside, like a modern day Houdini-in-straight-jacket act, but that in fact, the shirt was TOO BIG! So I took the shirt off, flung it over to the nearest table display and snagged an XL instead. It slipped on with ease, but this time it felt juuuuust right.

Warning: This is where things get dramatic.

Forgetting my purse on the ground, or the fact that ANYONE was watching me, I scrambled to find the nearest mirror around the store. I'm sure I looked like a panic-stricken Mom searching for a missing child, but I didn't care. Once I located a mirror, I stood in front of it, turning this way and that way, holding my arms out, and even double checking the size on the shirts tag. Once I had confirmed with myself that I was truly wearing a "normal sized shirt" even if it was still an XL, I set out on a dead RUN to find Cason. Short of trampling a small child and tripping over a basket of colorful soccer balls on display, I finally spotted him near the wall of girls flip-flops. We made eye contact and a worried look came across his face, as I tried to race towards him. Before even thinking twice, I yelled out...

"LOOK! I CAN FIT IN NORMAL CLOTHES NOW!!!"

I don't know if it was because I was totally humiliated that I had just yelled this little fact out in front of about 15 people, who now thought I was crazy, or because I honestly couldn't remember the last time I EVER wore an XXL or XL, for that matter, but I started welling up with accomplished, proud, happy tears of joy... right there in the middle of the bathing suits and flip-flops, further embarrassing my poor husband even more.

(blush)

For so long I had convinced myself that I was happy, no matter what size my clothes were. I was confident in my personality and who I was inside...but it took that (totally embarrassing) breakdown at Old Navy, and a heart to heart chat with my good friend Kami, to make me realize that this weight-loss journey wasn't just about "getting skinny"... it was about me appreciating and then creating something beautiful, with the amazing body that God had given me.

Even though I've still got a long road ahead of me on this crazy-emotional weight loss journey, I know that making the choice to just DO IT, and STICK to it, was the best thing that I've ever done for myself. I can honestly say that EVERYTHING seems better in life (even the hard stuff), when you look and feel GREAT!

477 comments:

You are awesome! Seriously. So inspiring. If you were to put 60 lbs of butter on your kitchen island it would be shocking! You look great. Keep it up. I've been waffling on the weight loss thing and reading your story and seeing your results is so cool!

You look amazing! I am so inspired by you. On Jan 2nd I started my journey to a new me. As of Thursday I'm down 32 pounds & it feels great. I totally get where you're coming from on the Old Navy experience. My MIL just bought me three new shirts... at a "regular" store! Such a great feeling. Congratulations again on your weight loss & I can't wait for the next update!

sooo inspiring for me! I always feel like I just can't do it, that there's no way to do it. You look amazing and your comment about how you can creating something beautiful with the body God gave you. Although I know these things in theory, I just don't know how to apply them.

Please keep updating us. I'm so happy for you. I totally get losing weight for a reason other than health. I booked a trip to Hawaii and it motivated me to start calorie counting. I'm down 16. My goal is 40 but technically I should be losing 60. I think I might be happy with my body at the 40 mark though. I use an App on my phone to count calories. It's fantastic and really it's just basic math when you think about it. Calories in, calories out and all that.

Way to go! You are an amazing inspiration. I have loved your blog and the spirit you have shared through out all of your posts. This inspires me to keep going in my own weight loss journey.Thank you for sharing.

You rock! Not only do you look great, I can see the confidence you've gained in your smile. Great job. I'm on my own weight loss journey and it is definitely a series of moment by moment, day by day choices. It's encouraging to see that it's possible for real moms. Keep up the good work!

I think you're amazing! Weight loss is so hard! Eating healthy (for me) takes a little bit of the fun out of life. And the gym stinks. I too have never had that workout "high" that everyone talks about. Should we be jealous? :) It's a bit depressing to think that I'll have to work out the rest of my life to maintain. Oh & stay healthy! :) Because of course that's the most important part, right? :p At least there's that great sense of accomplishment after a hard workout.Keep up the fantastic work. Seriously you're awesome!

Awesome! I can totally see you doing that in the store! I would too! I remember when I lost weight that I didn't want to purchase new pants just yet so I would safety pin the waist at the back. I wore them like that for a while until I knew it was safe to buy smaller clothes. It felt great!

OMG Shelley!!! You look absolutely amazing!! I have always thought you are such a beautiful woman, inside and out, and now you are so stunning. Not to sound like a sap, but this post made me shed a tear.

I struggle with my weight, and wish more than anything I had the motivation to lose it. So thank you for sharing this journey, it has inspired me in more ways than you may ever know!

Bravo! Go girl! I know how it feels to lose weight and fit into clothes you hadn't before/haven't fit in a long time. I remember the feeling of freedom (as in: now that I don't have to worry about my weight anymore, there are so many OTHER, more interesting things I can accomplish!). Now I love my treadmill :)Enjoy it! It's a big accomplishment!

Oh Shelley! This brought on the tears for me! I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU! I saw your pictures fro Snap (and saw you lingering in other blogger's posts) and I did a double-take. You look amazing. You have always been a beautiful woman and I am amazed with your sense of style (something I've looked to for awhile now as a plus-size woman), but wow. I just had my third child two months ago and find myself really wishing I could appreciate my body more. I'm just not happy in my size 20(ish) skin anymore and I really want to find those muscles again. Your journey is inspring. Thank you for putting everything out there, even the sweaty pictures and the admission that you still hate the gym. Pulling for you right now!

Oh sister! I'm so happy for you. Um, and your face just gets prettier and prettier! I just lost 50lbs... well, no, like 6 months ago and I still grab bigger clothes when I'm shopping. I had my ring enlarged when I was heavy, thinking i'd neer lose the weight, and now it falls off. such a good (and scary) feeling. good for you!

You look ABSOLUTELY amazing Shelley! I'm so glad you are writing your story because I know for a fact that people can relate (especially me)! You motivate so many people in so many positive ways. Thanks for being awesome!!

Oh Shelley , I have not commented much because I know you get many but I had to. I have struggled with my weight all my 28 years and have hated myself for so many years after so many years of abuse and neglect I deemed myself unworthy of love and made myself as ugly on the outside as I was feeling on the inside but I have watched your progress on here and ig and I have cheered you on, this posts made my heart soar for you and ache for me , your beauty has always been evident with each contagious smile I have never seen you with weight just beaming eyes I want people to look at me that way. I have never felt so convicted in my life after reading this that it is my time. I am with it. I am starting tomorrow I am gonna start caring about who I am, gods beautiful creation. Thankyou from the bottom of my heart. Siobhan

Such an inspiring post! I've been reading your weight loss posts since the beginning and something finally clicked for me about a month ago. I started working out too. I figured, hey, if Shelley can do it, I can too! I was inspired by your candid posts and the fact that you shared with your readers the good, the bad, and the "ugly"! So I've been doing the same, even the sweat soaked face pictures I've come to love of yours! Thank you for being real and for sharing your story with us. I think of you every day as I'm sweating to the P90!

Great post Shelly. Very inspiring. I've gained so much weight over the last few years, now my partner and I find life just ain't so much fun any more. We need to lose weight but with so much to do and so little money... its a real struggle!

What an amazing post! You look fantastic! Radiant! I totally "get" the crossing your legs thing - I had never thought of it until this past year when I put on some weight and it was so uncomfortable. That, and wearing a skirt without my thighs rubbing together. You've motivated me to get on the treadmill right now! :)

You look so amazing! I have been following along your weight loss journey and have been inspired to take a look at my own health and weight. I started my own journey last week! Here's to being able to bend over and tie my shoelaces comfortably!

First of all, girl, you are FABULOUS! I know what you mean about working out. Some people love it,.....thrive on it. I have gone every week day morning for years and years and it is still like a JOB to me. But, I go. I do it. Rock on girl. Rock on. You inspire me.

wow - that is super inspiring! I lost 50 lbs before having my 3rd child and am now sitting with almost all of the weight back on my body and with absolutely no motivation, but still hating how I look. I need to kick my own butt back into getting healthy!

You're doing and looking awesome!! As corny as it may sound, I'm proud of you!!! Keep that positive motivation perched right there on your shoulder. You'll be at your goal in no time the way you're moving. CONGRATS!!!

Shelley, that is some jaw-dropping progress you have made! Look at you go! I am so excited for you. I had no idea that losing weight could change your shoe size...yet another incentive for me. Does this mean you've been able to go on a shoe shopping spree?

You totally inspire me! I have been a fan of your designs forever, but the fact you would so publicly share your weight loss store is brave and motivational to me. I just weaned my last baby from nursing last week and started my own weight loss journey on Saturday. I have 40 lbs. to lose and sometimes, it's easy to come up with excuses of why it's too hard to do, or try to find the "easy way out"to solve the weight issue... maybe I can do enough body wraps or find a magic diet pill... and try to avoid good, old fashioned hard work. So thank you for being motivational and showing that hard work pays off. If a busy mom of three and a top blogger/DIYer can find the time and energy to work out... so can I! Keep up the good work Shelley!

You are so beautiful inside and out! I have struggled all my life and at 650 pounds at age 31 I had gastric bypass. Over the years I lost over 300 pounds and at age 37 I found my eternal sweetheart and got married. At 41 I was miraculously blessed with a sweet little boy who is now 3 1/2 and the joy of my life! Since getting married and having a child, I have gained about 40 pounds and you have inspired me to get it off and after reading your post I know I can do it! Please keep sharing your journey....I need all the inspiration I can get. Once I reach my goal I will be able to get my excess sking removed (about 80 pounds) and my journey will be complete.....then on to the next exciting journey! Thank you again for the inspiration!!!!

Thank you for inspiring me! You are so beautiful inside and out! I started my journey 12 years ago at 650 pounds and with the help of surgery I lost over 300 pounds. Finally at age 37 I met and married my eternal sweetheart and at 41 was blessed with a little miracle named Max! Since getting married and having Max I have gained back about 40 pounds and you have inspired me to get busy and get it off. Once I have lost that 40, I hope to have the excess skin removed (about another 80 pounds)and then I can start the next adventure in my life and I will be able to keep up with Max! I love reading your blog everyday and admire you for following your dreams!

WOW!!!!!!!! Incredible, I am so proud of you! The before and after pictures are wonderful, and what great motivation for you. Keep up the great work, not only do you look healthy and fit but you are adding years to your life for those beautiful girls and husband of yours! CONGRATS!

Dear Shelly, I think I might be the first to tell you that you look AMAZING. Not only are you beautiful but you are doing something good for your health and your children. I have been a weight loss guru (see sawing my whole life) and I know the struggle, Keep up the good work!

Oh, Shelley...you are simply amazing. I am so proud of you and of all the hard work you have put into yourself...you are ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS and I can't wait to see what happens next. I, too, am trying to drop some pounds and I find that, so far, food has won. Your post has been an incredible inspiration to me...thank you, from the bottom of my heart...

Congratulations on your weight loss. You look amazing. If I could offer a suggestion to make the gym more "fun". For the next phase, I would suggest signing up for a 5k or something similar. Training in the gym for a tangible goal (beyond just looking good in clothes, which is an awesome goal too) makes the whole gym experience completely different. I am a competitive tennis player and am on the tennis court five days a week and have to work out in the gym 3-4 days a week in order to be able to play so much tennis. I don't "enjoy" the gym but for me it makes it so much easier to do because I am training for my next tournament etc. You will go from someone trying to lose weight to an athlete training for an event. Much different mindset and very empowering. Keep up the great work!!

Thank you so much for your update! A huge WOOOO-HOOOO!!!! from not so little me over here reading my google reader at the crack of dawn. That is awesome! I smiled and laughed knowing all too well what your reactions were/are to the gym, clothes, etc. I myself have been lost in my motivation and your blog helps me, so I'm cheering over here for you!! Good Job girl! Keep it up! ....now I need to officially dig my old running shoes out of the closet and get moving :) Happy Monday & Mother's Day!

WOW! You look amazing. And what an INSPIRATION! After having my first baby last year, I'm on a "lose weight and get healthy again" journey too. I'm doing a all-female bootcamp...YIKES!(http://melindaandjonathan.blogspot.com/2012/05/mirror-mirror-reflections-from-week-1.html) It is KILLER... but so rewarding at the same time. Keep up the AMAZING work, lady!!!

You go with your bad self!! I huge congratulations to you!! I lost 75 pounds and I *know* how hard it is in every way shape and form. So who cares how crazy you may look in Old Navy, I say start dancing next time. ;) You go girl! :)

Wow, you look amazing and I am seriously impressed. I follow your site for your decorating ideas but find myself more interested and motivated by all of your weight loss journey. Love all of your brutal honesty about the topic! WAY TO GO!!!

You look great! At the risk of sounding like an oddball, I am so proud of you! As someone who was skinny her whole life, this was something I would not have understood. Since having kids and gaining 60 lbs I feel overwhelmed at how difficult losing weight is. If someone has never had to do it, they don't get how hard it is. It is really, really hard. Your pictures are so motivating. I think it is time for me to start working at it again. Thanks for the inspiration.

You are totally amazing! I recently stumbled on your blog and absolutely love the home diy posts, but your weight loss journey absolutely sucked me in. You are so beautiful! Keep it up girl - you are an inspiration to me.

I saw you in someone's photo from SNAP recently & thought, "Shelly looks SO SMALL!" Congratulations on sticking with it & getting such great results, and thanks as always for taking us along on the ride!

I so appreciated this post today!!! I know the feeling and am trying to battle my way back down the scale...it's so hard sometimes, but you have SOOO inspired me to keep going!! You look amazing and I'm so happy for your success!! Thanks for "keepin it real" :o)

It's very motivating to see someone have such success. Keep up the good fight and good luck. I think it's time I stopped using excuses as a scapegoat: this ass has lived it up long enough. Downsizing is imminent.

OMG! you look SO great! It is so inspiring when someone shares a successful weight loss story. I lost 110 lbs about 6 years ago...kinda gained about 20 since I've been married though...happily cooking too much good things I guess! I have been looking for some motivation and girlie this is a good post to motivate! Thank you! XO!!

YOU ARE AWESOME! And beautiful! When you started this weight loss journey, I was cheering you on. Now, I am jumping up and down with joy for you. I am SO happy for you. I know what it means to be uncomfortable in your own body and I am so proud to be your friend... er... um... I mean... so proud to be your devoted reader!

you are such a pretty girl period. It's all about what make you feel better. So that being said, 60 pounds??? wow girl! way to go. I wish I had that will power. Look forward to more pictures as you progress.

Thank you for sharing! You inspire me. I WANT that embarrassing moment in Old Navy! :) Just starting my journey. I've lost 6.5 (yes I'm marking the 1/2 lbs) so far but have a loooonnngg way to go to lose the 71 lbs more.

I love this post so much. You are truly an inspiration and love how you tell it as it is. I cracked up at the whole Old Navy story. Reminded me of a time I tried on a sweater on The Gap floor...something was seriously mislabeled and I was a sausage trying to wriggle my way out of a too tight turtleneck sweater. Panic sunk in and arms flew all around. Ha too funny thinking about it.

I am so happy you've come this far on one crazy wild journey. Keep at it.

How very lovely and encouraging. I have been on this getting healthier journey for two years now. I originally lost 88 pounds only to allow myself to gain 30 of it back when my two oldest flew the nest last spring. My daughter is home for the summer from college and we are getting back on a routine of exercise and healthy eating. I Have about 55-60 pounds total to go :) Love reading about other people's journey to health! Keep up the good work! Kimber (from Stilettos In the Mud: Confessions of a Counterfeit Country Girl)

WOO-HOOO!!!! I am so very over the moon happy for you! I love these posts and you have inspired me to get back on the horse and get this weight off....again and finally. You are such an awesome, gorgeous, inspiring girl. Keep rockin it!!!!

I love it!! I can totally relate to the "leg crossing" thing. I started my new life Jan 1 and am down 46 lbs and also get to wear NORMAL clothes!! I am very proud of you and you are a great inspiration to me and others.

I love it!! I can totally relate to the "leg crossing" thing. I started my new life Jan 1 and am down 46 lbs and also get to wear NORMAL clothes!! I am very proud of you and you are a great inspiration to me and others.

I love it!! I can totally relate to the "leg crossing" thing. I started my new life Jan 1 and am down 46 lbs and also get to wear NORMAL clothes!! I am very proud of you and you are a great inspiration to me and others.

You know I love your posts! I know how you feel! I just got into pants with a 1 in front of it too and it's wonderful! I am completely inspired by you!! Keep up the awesome work! Your wonderful results keep me going!

Love, love, love this post and am so happy for you! You look fantastic and your smile shares more about your journey/how you feel than all the words in this post. You have no idea how much this has inspired me... Thank you for sharing.

Thank you so much!!! I really needed to read this today!! I have been struggling with my weight FOREVER!!!! In September of 2010 I started hitting the gym everyday, sometimes twice a day and eating right. Between September 23rd & Christmas I lost 22 pounds. I was so excited, I had never actually succeeded at weight loss before!! Needless to say, in February of 2011 I found out I was expecting baby #4. I was ecstatic! My sweet boy is now 8 months old and I am at my all time highest :( But with hard work & dedication I know I can get there! Thanks again for sharing your journey!

Shelley, you'd never know you weren't enjoying this process from your pictures I so enjoy seeing them and your posts on your weight loss journey. I hope you are darn proud of your progress it is so refreshing to see someone doing it the "right" way. It takes time, dedication, exercise, and eating well and you are showing the world it works. Keep up the good work girl you're a rock star and are looking amazing!!

Wow...such an inspiring journey! I am also plus size, so I can totally relate! I've been doing weight watchers (for the 4th or 5th time...lol) and I find it hard to keep focused, despite the fact that I am "pre-diabetes". Your pictures are so amazing. I can't wait to take some before pictures of myself and start working on the after! Thanks again for sharing!

well you are beautiful! I just built a shelf in my room because you inspired me with your home. You inspire me with you attitude. And I hope you realize what a light you are to this world. I think you are the best blogger currently living. I hope that knowing people like me want to be better because of people like you will be something that can motivate you to go to all those icky sweaty places I hate to go too. =)

From the moment I met you I've loved you. That love has now turned into admiration and complete awe at your strength and determination. You are inspiring me and SO many others out there to "create" something beautiful with not only our homes, but with ourselves! Thank you, and congratulations!

YOU ROCK! OH...I am SO happy for you!! I'm SO inspired by you!! And I'm in "happy tears"...FOR YOU! For your courage. For your determination. For your strength. We're all right here with you...cheering you on!! YOU GO GIRL!!Jen xo

Way to go, Miss Shelley!!! I am so proud of you. That is a huge accomplishment!! And like you said, it's not just about being skinny... it's about being healthy and showing gratitude for the amazing bodies our Father in Heaven has blessed us with. Keep it up, my friend!! XO

I was initially going to comment to say how great you look and mention that I noticed the difference in your appearance in some of your recent posts. But as I was reading your words an even bigger truth came out - you sound so happy, and - forgive the word choice here - so much lighter. I've struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember, and while I'm overall a very happy person (and so thankful for the many, many blessings in my life), I have never felt comfortable in my body. It's easy to say we all want to look more attractive or become thinner or achieve a lower number in the scale, but the true change, I think, is the one that happens within as we begin to see ourselves becoming the best we can be.Your words, and more importantly the courage you've shown in sharing the ups and downs of this journey with total honesty, are incredibly inspiring. Thank you. Your motivation is contagious.

I know exactly what you are saying! I have lost 70 lbs over the last year and I am so excited and amazed when I try something on that's a normal size. I used to hate clothes shopping but now am loving it! Keep up the great work. You are doing fantastic!

So proud of you! Keep up the good work and the positive, healthy, and Godly attitude about your previous, current, and future weight! You are an encouragement and inspiration to others and are beautiful on the inside and out!Many blessings as you continue on this journey... I challenge you to keep it up!

Thank you for being such an inspiration! I cannot wait to get back to smaller shoes! I get the crossing your legs but mine is always I cannot wait to be able to shave my legs and be more comfortable doing it! lol Weird I know!

I love it! I'm a WW leader and your journey is much like my journey - 75 lbs. down for 6 years now - you will do this and keep doing it for the rest of your fabulous life! If you ever need a cheerleader I'm available!

I am so happy for you and your family. I just happened to come in this morning and pull up your site and read your post. I have been in your shoes once before and I know what you are going through. Even on your worse day just remember you are stronger then you think and all things are possible when you believe in yourselve just as your family does.

Oh my gosh, I LOVE THIS!! And your progress pictures....whoa! What a huge difference 60 lbs has made.......even the 30 lbs down picture! I'm so SO proud of you! I love how you shared all of those non-scale victories (like they say at Weight Watchers lol) about the jewelry, shoes, crossing legs, etc. It's amazing how restricted we really are when we are overweight and we just "live" with it because that's how it's always been..Ugh! Cheers to you for making this change. Keep up the amazing work! Love ya! xoxo

You look amazing! I'm so excited for you that you were able to fit into something at Old Navy! Keep up the great work even if going to the gym sucks. I've been trying to tell myself the same thing lately. haha!

Ive lost almost 40 since mid-January, and just did this EXACT same thing at Old Navy on Thursday! Well, except for the fact I was talking to myself,ha! I then went next door to Target and did the same thing! I havent had alot of people comment on my loss so far, but, at least I can tell a difference. Congrats on your loss, and I sooo agree on all the things you talk about here.

This post is totally what I am going through now!! I have lost 68lbs in one year!!!

I love that I can cross my legs (I do it all the time!!) and I am finally in a size 18 pants AND XL shirts!!!!

Everything you said sounds just like me thanks for the post to keep me going... I kinda hit a plateau and am going on vacation next week to the outer banks for my girlfriends wedding... ugh!! I just want to come back the same weight... we will see!!

You are so right it is an emotional weight loss journey... and I also "thought" I was happy whatever size clothing I wore and funny I was like if you don't like how I look don't talk to me... but I just "feel" better!!

Wow this post was such a motivation to me! I am a "fluffy" girl. My story is different though. Growing up, I was smaller. Only because I had a diabetic mother who was very good at keeping us all on her very strict diet. I never even learned to exercise because I never felt I needed it. Now- 3 beautiful children later. I have gained exactly my 8 year old in weight. That is saying a lot since I am only 4'11'' tall! I just don't know how to preceed from here. I feel miserable. I dread going into public or especially to family funtions. Because all 4 of my sisters in law are so skinny and fashion savvy. They always want to go shopping! I end up a mess because I head straight to the jewelry and pretend I dont want to look at clothes I know I couldn't squeeze into to save my life! Please tell me how you started out? I don't have a gym here but I just bought zumba cds. I am willing to put in the work. Did you change your diet too? I have already cut out soda and limit my sugar. Any suggestions? I'm just at a loss as to how to get going.

Wow this post was such a motivation to me! I am a "fluffy" girl. My story is different though. Growing up, I was smaller. Only because I had a diabetic mother who was very good at keeping us all on her very strict diet. I never even learned to exercise because I never felt I needed it. Now- 3 beautiful children later. I have gained exactly my 8 year old in weight. That is saying a lot since I am only 4'11'' tall! I just don't know how to preceed from here. I feel miserable. I dread going into public or especially to family funtions. Because all 4 of my sisters in law are so skinny and fashion savvy. They always want to go shopping! I end up a mess because I head straight to the jewelry and pretend I dont want to look at clothes I know I couldn't squeeze into to save my life! Please tell me how you started out? I don't have a gym here but I just bought zumba cds. I am willing to put in the work. Did you change your diet too? I have already cut out soda and limit my sugar. Any suggestions? I'm just at a loss as to how to get going.

I have to say as I was reading this I was a fly on the wall in old navy watching you have this experience. You write so well. My heart was pounding with excitement at your new accomplishment like I was your BFF! And we haven't even met! You look amazing! Keep up your hard work! You're so inspiring. Literally.

In the middle of these nearly 200 comments I hope you see how much you mean to us, to the world, to your family. You are such an inspiration. And what makes you even more amazing is that you're inspiring on so many levels. Oh my gosh, Shelley....I just LOVE you. I love you like I have known you forever, and this is just from being a HOS follower for a few years. I just wanted you to know that. That is all. ;)

Thank you for the inspiration. I started my journey in January and I am down 38 pounds. I love the real you...the sweaty red faced post workout pictures...cuz that is exactly what I look like and you keep me motivated to keep on keeping on! :)

Oh my gosh! This was just the inspiration I have been needing. I can relate to you on EVERY level!! I love that you are so honest about your experience. You look fabulous! I can't wait for your next post!

I just have to add my "YOU ARE AMAZING" to this post. You look fantastic, and your perseverance and commitment are awe inspiring!! The gym is not my best friend either, so I spend my exercise time riding my bike or hiking--something outside in this beautiful weather we're having now. Somehow being outside makes me feel like I'm just out having fun, and not focussing on the pain of "exercising." Just a little fresh air therapy!! Anyway, you are gorgeous and inspirational in many, many ways. Thank you for sharing yourself with us!!

Amazing! You look amazing! That's all there is to say! Well that and that I'm extremely jealous of you. I think I'm the same size as your starting weight and I keep dreaming that one of these days I'll actually accomplish the weight loss and feel and look like I want to. Your seriously giving me some food for thought here on restarting my desire to loose weight. I have to do this, I seriously have to do this! Keep up the great work.

You have achieved an AMAZING thing! Losing 60 lbs in 6 months is incredible and you should be so proud of yourself! As a Christian fitness instructor it brought me to tears to read what you said about not being skinny, but creating something beautiful with the amazing body God has given you! I believe that when people get past the part of "looking skinny" and get deeper into why you should lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle you will see even more progress in yourself!Awesome job, keep going girl!

You have done so awesome!!! I saw you speak at SNAP and I will be honest I didn't religiously follow your blog before. I had no idea about your weight loss journey! YOU GO GIRL!

I also must say that no matter what you look like on the outside - you are truely amazing on the inside. Everytime you spoke at SNAP you were so real, down to earth, and just plain INSPRIRING! They should give you your very own slots next year ;)

Congratulations Shelly! You look great! I know how hard t is to keep motivated with working out and loosing weight. I have worked in a fitness club for 5 years and it is so sad to see so many people who work out everyday to lpose weight, but they never push themselves to fatigue or make healthy eating choices. Sadly, they never loose weight or gain a much healthier lifestyle. So when I see people who do push themselves and who do make those healthy lifestyle choices, I get so excited for them. You look wonderful! Taking care of the bodies God has given us is so important. Keep it up! =)Alesha <3

You look FANTASTIC! Keep up the great work! My husband has been told my the doctor he has to lose 50 pounds (he's a high risk for diabetes) and I'm totally going to send him this post. It's not easy but it's so worth it!

Wow! You are doing great! I bet your girls are so proud of their momma :) I actually teared up at the end because I can't fit in "normal" stuff anymore and I hate it. I used to be able to grab a small shirt off the rack and go. Last 5 years or so being married and having a kid I've just gained more and more. My hubby is deploying soon and I think I am going to make time for me and loose some of this weight and surprise him when he gets home! You are such an inspiration and I love your honesty and humor. I'm glad you admit the gym sucks and the reasons you do it for. It's more realistic that way and I appreciate it! Keep it up!! <3

You should be soooo PROUD of yourself! And hey...we all are happier when we look (yes look) and feel great! It's part of life , how god made us. We feel good, are in a better mood, more patient when our bodies are healthy, glowing and lookin gooood! You go Shelly!! With your beautiful self!! And HELLO! The example you are setting for your baby girls..is priceless.

Oh my GOODNESS!!!! You look INCREDIBLE! I have always thought of you as such a beautiful person. You have one of the prettiest faces I've ever seen. And now the new confidence that is plastered all over your face is just adding to your beauty. I've never met you personally, but you are just one of those people who makes others want to be your friend. You have such a fantastic personality. Your girls are lucky to have you as their Mama. What a great example you are to them, and to us all!!! Keep up the good work Shelley. It will be totally worth it in the end;)

YOU ARE AMAZING!!! I am sitting here trying to get motivated to get back into my weight loss routine and you have totally inspired me!! I am so proud of you and can't wait to read about your next 30lbs!!! Lots of love!

Thank you for writing this post! It is so motivational and I can totally identify with you. I sent it around to my friends who are going through similar feelings. I am so happy for you! Keep it up girl!

First I would like to say I love reading your blog! Congratualtions, your stories are inspiring to others that are struggling. It is amazing what can happen in six months if you put some serious effort into yourself. I may have to try again because of your inspiring story. Thanks for sharing such a personal part of your life it truely help me today. :)

I just recently started following your blog and what an amazing little place you have here on the web, love your posts! Congratulations on your weight loss journey, you have come such a long way and you look great! :)

Wow is all I can say. I don't know you, but I love your blog. And I usually don't post comments, but I knew I had to this time. I can totally relate to your excitement over normal sizes as I, a 35 year old woman, have NEVER been able to wear them myself. I literally cried with joy for you because I know what an accomplishment that is. You are such an inspiration, and I can't help but feel proud of you. I also wanted to Thank You for sharing your journey with your readers. Life really is full of possibilities. :)

you look ah. maz. ing!!! seriously! i know you don't know me, but i am so proud of you! you have helped to give me the motivation and determination to get in shape for bathing suit weather...insert dramatic scream here!

You are wonderful!!!!! :) I hope you know that you're inspiring so many people to take the leap to get healthy. I'm glad that you're taking care of you and that's what is important! I'm going to be sharing this with some friends who need it. You're amazing!!!

Shelley, for a long, long, time I have been a silent admirer of HofS. I always thought you were such an amazing woman for being comfortable in your own skin, I thought you were beautiful and A-mazingly talented. Then I was so happy for you as you set out on this journey, I thought great, she will lose a little, then be even happier and more beautiful! Then, as soon as I saw your latest pictures of you 60 lb. lighter self, I couldn't help but smile for you! YOU LOOK AMAZING! So amazing that it has brought me out of my "silent admirer" status! CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Way to go and I am so happy for this new step in your life! What an accomplishment!! I mentioned that I thought you were beautiful and strong before, but I had no idea how beautiful and strong you would become as you celebrated the body our Heavenly Father has given you! You are amazing!

I confess, I mostly blog stalk you and rarely comment, but after reading this, I just HAD to tell you, that you ROCK! You go girl, keep up the great work and positive attitude, you look phenominal. Atta girl! :)

You are so awesome and aspiring. You are so right about putting yourself out there and seeing the results transpire. I so want to do a blog about this for me. I have struggled with weight loss my whole life. Thank you!

You are so awesome and aspiring. You are so right about putting yourself out there and seeing the results transpire. I so want to do a blog about this for me. I have struggled with weight loss my whole life. Thank you!

That is such an awesome feeling isn't it! Congrats! You look amazing! Coming from someone who has struggled with weight all my life, I feel your "pain." I have been trying to loose weight and I just lost 22 lbs. I have kind of been slowing down a bit and kind of thought that I would quit and be comfortable at the weight I am at now. But people are starting to notice and it feels so good that I am going to keep going! Thanks for your posts, they are inspirational!

You look amazing! Congrats! I have the gym down not a big deal for me going 5 to 6 days a week. BUT the food is hard! How are u staying motivated with the food and what do u eat in the day. I kinda get sick of te same old thing. Would love some tips?

Ok so I am lurker and I don't even know if I have ever commented...I have a looonnnggg list of blogs I follow and sometimes forget to check some for months at a time. When I came here the other day I KNEW you looked smaller but I had missed all your weight loss posts. So I came back today and you confirmed it. You look so good! Go you!!

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